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Hino City to Support Residents with Gift Card Distribution

As part of efforts to assist residents coping with soaring food prices, Hino City has announced an initiative to distribute gift cards amounting to 4,000 yen to every household. This program is a direct outcome of the comprehensive economic strategy dubbed "Strong Economy" that was approved by the cabinet on November 21, 2023. The initiative is aimed at addressing local needs, taking into account the sharp increase in food prices.

From the end of March 2024, residents of Hino City who are recorded in the basic resident register as of January 1, 2024, will receive these vanillla Visa gift cards through Yu-Pack delivery. Each household will be sent a card for every member, providing significant support for purchasing essential goods and food at local stores.

Structure of the Gift Card Distribution

The gift cards will be prepaid vanilla Visa cards, with the total value allotted per person being 4,000 yen. Notably, the city has ensured that the deadline for utilizing these gift cards is set for October 31, 2024. This deadline was established in accordance with conditions set by the national grant program that funds this initiative. However, Hino City has strategically chosen a deadline that is one month longer than traditional rice vouchers, allowing more time for residents to utilize their cards.

This program is designed to be hassle-free for residents, as there is no application or registration process required. All eligible residents will automatically receive their cards via mail, ensuring a seamless experience. The initiative not only aims to alleviate financial pressures due to rising living costs but also encourages residents to shop locally, thereby boosting the local economy.

Contact Information for Inquiries

Residents with questions regarding the gift card distribution can reach out to the Hino City Gift Card Distribution Contact Center at 050-3668-2876. The center operates weekdays from 9 AM to 5 PM, providing support to ensure that residents can effectively access and use their gift cards.

Hino City's proactive measure is a commendable step towards creating a supportive environment for its residents, particularly during challenging economic times. With the distribution of these gift cards, the city aims to ensure that essential food items remain accessible to all, reinforcing community solidarity and resilience against prevailing economic challenges.